Introduction to Jealousy in 'The Kite Runner'

Jealousy and Its Root Causes: Amir's Envy of Hassan in 'The Kite Runner'

In Khaled Hosseini's The Kite Runner, the emotional complexity of Amir and Hassan's relationship is explored through the lens of jealousy. This novel not only delves into the intricate human emotions of the main characters but also depicts the societal and cultural influences that shape these feelings. This article will delve into the reasons why Amir is jealous of Hassan, backed by specific instances from the book and comparisons.

Parental Attention and Jealousy

Craving for Parental Affection: Amir's jealousy is often a result of his need for his father Baba's approval and love.

Amir feels that Baba's attention is often skewed towards Hassan. This is evident in Baba's decision to hire a plastic surgeon to correct Hassan's harelip, which Amir perceives as unjustly favoring Hassan.

Amir is jealous of how Hassan is able to stand up for Amir without any hesitation, while Amir can't find the courage to defend himself against others.

Socioeconomic Differences

The class divide between Hassan and Amir is a significant source of Amir's jealousy and insecurities.

Amir is acutely aware of the societal divide that separates them, which makes him feel inferior about his worth and status.

Amir often views Hassan as a son who receives more attention from his father and feels that he is constantly struggling to prove his worth within the family and society.

Talents and Abilities

Amir's jealousy is further intensified by Hassan's natural talent in kite flying and his fearlessness.

Amir admires Hassans skill in kite flying but envies it, highlighting Amirs struggles with self-doubt and his desire to be recognized for his own talents.

Amir's inability to fly the kite like Hassan, as shown on page 50, indicates his jealousy and the gap in their abilities.

Friendship and Loyalty

The unwavering loyalty and devotion of Hassan to Amir trigger a sense of guilt in Amir, contributing to his jealousy and resentment.

Hassan's loyalty is unshaken, while Amir feels he does not reciprocate Hassans loyalty, leading to resentment and jealousy.

A poignant instance of Amir's jealousy is when he says to Baba, "I wished I too had some kind of scar that would beget Babas sympathy. It wasnt fair. Hassan hadnt done anything to earn Babas affections; he'd just been born with that stupid harelip." (Page 45)

These sentiments mirror the emotions found in the Holy Bible, where the struggle for divine favor and the feelings of jealousy and competition among siblings are also prevalent themes.

Conclusion

The dynamics of jealousy in The Kite Runner are complex and multifaceted. Through specific instances from the novel, we see how parental attention, socioeconomic differences, talents and abilities, and friendship and loyalty all contribute to Amir's jealousy of Hassan. These emotions drive the narrative and shape the characters' actions and decisions, formulating a story that resonates deeply with readers.